Cylinder liner issues
Thread Content
Dear experts, the poster has a design task that involves pressurizing atmospheric oxygen to 150 atmospheres, with a nominal flow rate of 10 L/min. This is to be achieved through 4 stages of compression, resulting in a miniature, high-pressure compressor. The maximum wall thickness of the cylinder is now calculated to be 18 mm, which is a relatively small value. So, should a cylinder liner be added as well? According to the design manual, the recommended wall thickness for the cylinder liner is 8–12 mm, while the wall thickness of the cylinder itself is only 18 mm. I hope everyone can offer some guidance! The original poster thanks everyone here!
According to LZ’s description, it should be a piston compressor. It is advisable to design the component with cylinder liners, as the compressor piston moves back and forth inside the cylinder. Although lubrication is provided, wear is inevitable over time. Once the wear exceeds the acceptable level, it is sufficient to replace only the cylinder liners; otherwise, the entire cylinder block would need to be replaced. Even if the diameter of the cylinder block is not large, the cost involved is still significant. Therefore, except in the case of miniature, low-pressure compressors, cylinder liners are generally included in the design.
In my opinion, the need to replace cylinder liners in compressors is also rare. For small compressors, it’s necessary to consider the costs of the two different design options; cylinders with fitted cylinder liners are likely to be more expensive. If the piston rings used are not made of metal, the damage to the equipment will be less severe! In fact, it’s still the customer and cost that hold the decision-making power!
Thank you for the reply. The oxygen compressor designed here features oil-free lubrication. According to the manual, the material for the inner surface of cylinders in contact with oxygen can be stainless steel or bronze to ensure oxidation resistance. Considering weight and casting processes, it is better to choose stainless steel cylinder liners along with a cast iron cylinder block. Thank you!
Thank you for the reply. I also choose to use cylinder liners.